The Line Fire, currently burning in the San Bernardino National Forest, is in close proximity to Lake Arrowhead, California. As of October 2, 2024, the fire has consumed 43,890 acres and is 79% contained. While not directly threatening Lake Arrowhead at present, the fire’s proximity has prompted evacuation warnings for nearby communities, including Lake Arrowhead itself. The situation remains dynamic, with firefighters actively working to control the blaze and protect surrounding areas.
What is the Current Status of the Line Fire?
The Line Fire, the primary wildfire affecting the area near Lake Arrowhead, is currently burning in the San Bernardino National Forest. Here are the key details:
- Location: Active fire behavior observed in Angelus Oaks and Santa Ana River drainage
- Acreage burned: Approximately 43,890 acres
- Containment: 79% as of October 2, 2024
- Active areas: Eastern flank in the Angelus Oaks area, up to Highway 38 just north of Angelus Oaks
- Firefighting efforts: Direct suppression tactics and building containment lines
How Close is the Fire to Lake Arrowhead?
While the Line Fire is not directly threatening Lake Arrowhead at this time, its proximity has raised concerns for the community:
- The fire is burning in the San Bernardino National Forest, which surrounds Lake Arrowhead
- Evacuation warnings have been issued for Lake Arrowhead and nearby communities
- The fire’s eastern flank is active in the Angelus Oaks area, which is approximately 15-20 miles east of Lake Arrowhead
What Areas Are Under Evacuation Orders?
Several areas near Lake Arrowhead are under evacuation orders or warnings:
- Mandatory evacuation orders:
- Seven Oaks (ANG02)
- Angelus Oaks (ANG01)
- Running Springs
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Arrowbear Lake
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Evacuation warnings:
- Boulder Bay area of Big Bear
- Big Bear Lake (including Moonridge, Sugarloaf, and south Erwin Lake)
- Green Valley Lake
- Cedar Glen
- Lake Arrowhead
- Crestline
- Valley of Enchantment
Where Are the Evacuation Shelters Located?
For those affected by the evacuations, several shelters have been established:
- Redlands East Valley High School
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Address: 31000 E. Colton Ave., Redlands, CA
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Apple Valley Conference Center
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Address: 14975 Dale Evans Pkwy, Apple Valley, CA
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San Bernardino County Fairgrounds
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Jessie Turner Health and Fitness Community Center
What Road Closures Are in Effect?
Several major roads in the area are closed due to the fire:
- Highway 330: Closed from Highland Avenue to Highway 18 in Running Springs
- Highway 18: Closed from Kuffel Canyon to the Big Bear Dam
Residents are advised to:
– Follow designated evacuation routes
– Check for updates on road conditions before traveling
What Emergency Response Measures Are in Place?
The response to the Line Fire involves multiple agencies and resources:
- Firefighting resources:
- Air tankers
- Engines
- Water tenders
- Helicopters
- Dozers
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Hand crews
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Forest Closure Order:
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All National Forest lands, trails, and roads within the fire zone are closed
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Damage assessment:
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Damage Inspection Teams (DINS) are assessing property damage
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Support for affected residents:
- A Local Assistance Center (LAC) has been established
What is the Latest Fire Behavior Update?
The fire’s behavior has been influenced by various factors:
- Recent conditions: Cooler and more humid weather has moderated fire activity
- Challenges: High heat and steep terrain have impacted firefighting operations
- Potential risks: Chance of thunderstorms, which could produce:
- Brief heavy rain
- Gusty winds
- Potential changes in fire behavior
What Official Announcements Have Been Made?
Several official announcements have been made regarding the Line Fire:
- State of Emergency:
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Governor Gavin Newsom has proclaimed a state of emergency in San Bernardino County
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Federal Assistance:
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Federal assistance has been secured to support the response to the Line Fire
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National Guard Activation:
- The California National Guard has been activated to support ongoing response efforts
When Can Residents Expect to Return Home?
The timeline for residents to return home depends on several factors:
- Fire progression
- Lifting of evacuation orders
- Safety assessments of affected areas
Residents are advised to:
– Monitor official updates regularly
– Wait for official announcements regarding safe re-entry to their homes
– Follow all instructions from emergency management officials
By staying informed and following official guidance, residents can ensure their safety and facilitate an orderly return process once conditions allow.
References:
- [Line Fire: Incident Update on 10/02/2024 at 8:57 AM | CAL FIRE]
- [Line Fire – Cal Fire – CA.gov]
- [Line Fire – CABDF – InciWeb]